Let’s talk COVID and travel! How do you know which countries are open? What flying is going to be like? What will hotels & hostels be like? What attractions will be open? Well, here’s a thread to help you out:

With around 200 countries (depends on what count you use) in the world, there’s a lot of rules to sift through. Luckily, there are a few websites that will make that research a bit more straightforward.

The Points Guy & Travel Off Path have breakdowns on the current travel rules for virtually every country in the world.

TPG: https://nomadicmatt.us/32BeSNf 
TOP: https://nomadicmatt.us/3jpClqw 

If you’re from the US, Skyscanner has a handy list of state restrictions: https://nomadicmatt.us/32y8FSl 

You can also download the app @appintheair to get updates on your phone. Their app is pretty awesome as it will let you search airlines by what their policies, lets you know what airports are doing, and has information on health checks too.

Be sure to Google “(country name) foreign office” or “(country name) official tourism board.” They’ll have the best info on quarantine rules, testing, and other restrictions. Additionally, “(country name) COVID travel update” will get you a good list of official websites too.

Airlines: Most airlines are requiring passengers to wear masks & have updated their cancellation policies to make it easier to change your flight. Plus, many have enhanced their cleaning procedures. (Some are better than others.)
Check the airline for the latest info.

How to be hygienic while flying:

1. Wash your hands frequently (or consider wearing latex gloves).
2. Wear a mask.
3. Refrain from touching your face.
4. Wipe down your seat with disinfectant wipes. (Seriously, airplanes (and most people) are gross!)

Accommodation: Most major chains have committed to enhanced cleaning routines. Some of the key changes:

1. Temperature/health checks
2. Enhanced disinfection & cleaning of common areas
3. Adjustments to maintain social distancing
4. Extra disinfection for the most-used items

As for hostels, there’s no hostel association where members have to adhere to certain guidelines like in other industries. Be sure to reach out to the hostels directly as they will be best positioned to answer your questions.

If you're looking to learn more about Airbnb and how it is responding to the current situation, here is their Coronavirus policy page: https://www.airbnb.com/resources/hosting-homes?persona=guest

Most tour companies are not selling tours right now. Many are offering local excursions, virtual tours, and self-guided audio tours. My favorite companies to check out:

@Intrepid_Travel
@walks
@heyFatTireTours
@FreeToursByFoot

For everyday activities in a destination, simply check the local tourism office. They will have up-to-date information on what attractions are doing as well as info on changes to public transportation.

Booking: I would book within 1-2 weeks of departure. Keep an eye on cases. If they're still low, you should be fine. If cases are rising, you run the risk of new restrictions. DON'T go anywhere if you can't get a COVID test. A negative test might suddenly be required of you!

It’s nice the world is starting to open up again but, personally, I think it’s best to focus on local travel and stay away from crowds but these guidelines can at least help you understand what to expect when you travel. More details on the blog: https://nomadicmatt.us/3joXD7F